Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has commended the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers for its efforts to boost public awareness and deepen insurance penetration across the country.
Otti gave the commendation on Monday, June 1, 2026, while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian insurance industry led by the President of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe, at the Government House in Umuahia.
The governor acknowledged the vital role of insurance in safeguarding individuals, businesses, and investments against unforeseen risks, describing it as a critical tool for economic stability and financial security. He also praised the industry’s decision to engage directly with the public to improve understanding and acceptance of insurance products.
According to Otti, effective regulation and policy implementation require meaningful interaction with the people they are designed to serve. He expressed confidence that increased engagement would help strengthen public trust in the insurance sector.
He noted that a large number of Abia residents are involved in trade, manufacturing, and other micro, small and medium-scale enterprises, making insurance an essential safety net for businesses and individuals facing unexpected challenges.
The governor welcomed plans to launch the Insurance Penetration Initiative in Abia State and pledged his administration’s support in encouraging wider participation among residents.
Expressing satisfaction with the programme, Otti said insurance provides confidence and reassurance that support will be available when unforeseen events occur. He further commended industry leaders for their proactive efforts to build public confidence in insurance services.
He reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders in the insurance sector and pledged continued support for initiatives that promote financial security, economic sustainability, and inclusive economic growth in the state.
Speaking during the meeting, the President of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe, disclosed that the council was in Abia for the 2026 Insurance Chief Executive Officers’ Retreat and the formal launch of the Insurance Penetration Initiative.
She explained that Abia was selected as the pilot state for the initiative because of Governor Otti’s commitment to development and his strong understanding of economic and financial issues.
Ezeibe also commended the administration’s achievements over the past three years, highlighting improvements in security, road infrastructure, power supply, and the revitalisation of commercial activities, particularly in Aba.
She described Abia as a model for economic growth and sustainable development and formally invited the governor to participate in the retreat and launch event.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission, Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, praised Otti’s developmental efforts and described Abia as a strategic hub in Nigeria’s industrial and economic landscape.
Omosehin stressed the importance of insurance in promoting business continuity, financial inclusion, consumer protection, and economic stability.
He highlighted key provisions of the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025, including strengthened consumer protection measures and the establishment of the Insurance Policyholders Protection Fund aimed at safeguarding policyholders’ interests.
He assured the governor and the people of Abia State of NAICOM’s commitment to supporting initiatives designed to increase insurance awareness and adoption, describing the NCRIB programme as a significant step towards building a more resilient economy.
The meeting was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Senator Darlington Nwokocha; and other senior government officials.
